Ten volunteers have come forward to help after an appeal was launched to keep a vital fundraising store open at night – but more are still needed.

King's Lynn Hospital's League of Friends raises thousands of pounds to pay for equipment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, but is missing out on extra cash because the doors at its store are forced to shut at 4.30pm in the evenings, instead of 8pm, because of a lack of staff.

An appeal was launched for more volunteers to boost the charity's 34-strong team last month, and 10 people have stepped up to cover the tricky evening and weekend shifts.

Chairman Tom Greenacre said: 'I think it's brilliant, but more volunteers are always welcome. The extra money raised by covering those shifts will help us to buy even more equipment to help the patients.'

Last year, the League of Friends donated around £80,000 to the hospital, which has paid for a range of equipment including chest compression devices, patient pagers, recliner chairs along with a 'blood' motorbike for SERV (Service Emergency Rider Volunteers) charity.

Volunteers must be over 18 and undergo the relevant background checks. They must also be a member of the League of Friends, which costs £2 a year. The charity is holding its annual meeting in the hospital's lecture theatre at 7pm on Tuesday, September 27.

For more information call chairman Tom Greenacre on 01553 842258 or email greenacre284@btinternet.com